Kindergarten Field Trip to FDNY Fire Zone


In addition to studying the letter U, Kindergarten boys learned about fire safety this week.  The boys took a bus to Rockefeller Center, where Fireman Kevin and his buddies were waiting outside FDNY Fire Zone to greet them.  Inside, every square inch of the Fire Zone was covered with objects related to firefighting.  There was even a giant fire truck installed near the front door.
 
Fireman Kevin immediately engaged the boys with questions and, within moments, he was leading the boys in short jingles.  Everyone sang the 9-1-1 song, a fun way to remember to call 911 in case of a fire.  Then a large garage door opened to reveal a room that appeared to have been through a fire, complete with fake smoke and flames.  Everyone moved into that room to watch a video presentation and continue the discussion.  Fireman Kevin stressed how dangerous fire can be. After watching a video about two young children who accidentally started a fire, the group discussed how the fire got started.  They wisely concluded that matches, candles, and anything fire-related should only be used by adults.
 
The Kindergarten boys also learned the importance of planning and practicing an escape route.  They learned that it would be a bad idea to hide during a fire. Fireman Kevin then led them in singing, “Don’t hide! Go outside.”  They learned how to feel a door with the backs of their hands before opening it in case they are ever in a fire.  They also learned the importance of getting low to the ground to avoid inhaling smoke.  Then the boys got the chance to practice an escape.  The smoke machines turned on.  The boys crawled toward the door marked with an exit sign, felt the temperature of the door, and then made their way down a hallway toward another fireman who waved his flashlight as a guide.
 
The boys had some time at the end to try on firemen jackets, climb on the fire truck, and play with all of the gadgets on the side of the truck.  The boys had a wonderful time.  We extend our thanks to everyone at Fire Zone for teaching the boys in such a memorable, fun way.  We also send our thanks to the many parent chaperones.
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